Accident Overview
According to the pilot, the aircraft began losing engine power while returning to the airport after a pleasure flight of 35 to 40 minutes. The pilot stated that he was unable to glide the remaining two miles for a landing. He subsequently stalled the airplane into trees. The airplane dropped approximately 50 feet, coming to a stop 20-25 feet above the ground in a horizontal position.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the engine power loss occurred during the return leg of the flight. Despite efforts to reach the airport, the aircraft could not maintain sufficient altitude to clear the trees. The pilot executed a stall into the trees, resulting in the aircraft becoming lodged above the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, examination of the aircraft revealed that the carburetor heat cable had been pulled out. The carburetor air box valve was found frozen in the cold position. No other mechanical anomalies were reported.
Conclusion
The accident sequence was initiated by a loss of engine power, leading to an inability to reach the runway and a subsequent stall into trees. The condition of the carburetor heat system was noted during the post-accident inspection.